Lebanese Spiced Rice, also known as Riz ala’a dajaj, is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that is a staple in Lebanese cuisine. The dish is made by cooking basmati rice with a blend of aromatic spices and chicken broth, which gives it a savory and slightly sweet taste. The spiced rice is often served as a side dish with chicken or other meat dishes and is also commonly served during festive occasions and celebrations.
The dish is prepared by first rinsing the basmati rice in cold water to remove excess starch. The rice is then soaked in cold water for about 30 minutes to an hour to allow it to absorb moisture and become tender. Once the rice is soaked, it is drained and set aside.
In a pot or large skillet, onions and garlic are sautéed in olive oil until they become translucent. Next, the spices, such as cinnamon, allspice, and cardamom, are added to the pot and cooked for a few minutes to release their flavors. The soaked basmati rice is then added to the pot and sautéed with the onion and spice mixture until the rice grains become coated with the spice mixture.
Finally, chicken broth or water is added to the pot, and the rice is cooked until it is tender and fluffy. Once the rice is cooked, it is typically garnished with toasted almonds or pine nuts and fresh parsley or mint. The resulting dish is a flavorful and aromatic rice that pairs well with a variety of meats and vegetable dishes.